Westmeath face Carlow in Allianz League opener

Westmeath will be hoping to make a positive start to their Allianz Football League Division Four campaign when hosting Carlow at Cusack Park on Sunday.

Following three relegations in a row, Tom Cribbin’s side are expected to launch a promotion bid, but Carlow are worthy of the utmost respect.

Last month, Westmeath overcame Carlow on a 2-15 to 1-15 scoreline in the Bord na Mona O’Byrne Cup. That competition offered some encouraging moments for Westmeath, who lost to eventual finalists Louth before beating Carlow and Maynooth University.

Cribbin is encouraged by the improving depth of the Westmeath panel, but Carlow are tricky opponents when in the mood. It is an important game for Westmeath, who face Limerick away at the Gaelic Grounds on Sunday week.